Summer 2021 for Academically Motivated Middle Schoolers
By: Jahnavi Pradeep
Summer is a time for children to continue learning and growing beyond just the classroom. Academically driven middle schoolers can use this time to gain essential study skills, explore interests, gain independence, and build on their strengths to establish a strong foundation for high school. This past year, too many children were stuck in front of their screens for most of their academic activities, and we know how taxing that can be. Here, we offer you a curated list of virtual and in-person activities that your middle school student can partake in to make the best of their summer.
ONLINE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
The silver lining of the COVID 19 pandemic has been the discovery of an incredible array of enrichment courses that can be taken online in the most convenient and accessible form. Middle school students are at an age and stage of development where they have the independence and the attention span to really benefit from the online format. Taking an online course helps your academically driven middle schooler explore subjects and interests beyond what is offered at school and at levels that are appropriate for each student. Additionally, these classes can be cost effective. Here is a list of different subjects they can engage in over the summer, along with links to more in-depth resources for online classes they can take in these disciplines.
Math
Whether your middle schooler is bored and needs a greater challenge, or is struggling with math, summer is a great time to catch up or get ahead. Academically driven students will have no shortage of subjects to explore and advance their knowledge. Here are a couple resources for them to try.
Prodigy is a free fantasy roleplaying game. In it, students battle in-game characters by answering set questions. The app includes a reporting tool that allows parents/teachers to track a child's progress. Questions can also be customized for more targeted learning. Prodigy is designed for students ages 6-14/grades 1st-8th.
Thinkwell is a website that produces high quality video seminars on a variety of topics, such as pre-algebra, trigonometry, and calculus. Although the prices can be high, Thinkwell is a great alternative for students that don't respond as well to reading textbooks and need a more visual approach in order to master a new concept.
Khan Academy is an indispensable resource as we all know, and it’s completely free. Why not jump ahead and get the hang of algebra, or geometry while the student has time on their hands?
For more information on math enrichment, visit our Definitive Guide to Math Enrichment page.
Writing
Writing is an important skill for students to cultivate at any age, but it is critical for middle schoolers to gain competence in this area prior to starting high school. Consider making them maintain a daily journal over the summer to help keep them actively engaged in the practice of writing. They can write on anything that interests them, ranging from poetry to daily observations to book or film reviews to anything else that might inspire them to write! For formal organized programs and tools to help with writing, consider the following resources.
HemingwayApp is a simple, but effective tool passionate writers can use to highlight their problem areas. This online editor scans uploaded texts for run-on sentences, passive voice, and other common grammatical and structural issues that even a skilled proofreader can miss. The site also allows users to track their reading time, word count, and reading level, which can help meet the requirements of certain assignments.
Time4Writing is best known for its teacher-led 8-week writing course. Compared to other online intensives, it's relatively cost effective and comes highly recommended. The site also has a Free Writing Resources page that includes study guides on supporting details, run-ons, structural issues, and thesis statements. They also offer help on writing for standardized tests and research resources.
Writopia is a non-profit creative writing program for kids and teens ages 4–18. Started in New York City, the program has expanded to Washington DC, Chicago, Los Angeles, and is now accessible anywhere via online courses. All classes are taught by published authors and writers, and they provide classes in fiction, non-fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and even college essay writing.
For more information on writing resources, consult the Versed Guide to Definitive Writing Help.
Technology and Coding
With technology becoming indispensable in every field, middle school is a good time to get exposure to coding or technology in general. Beyond coding, students can take courses to learn more about graphic design, creating websites, producing video content, and more.
Code.org is a nonprofit website geared towards teaching school aged children (K-12) how to code online for free. They have courses that teach students how to code for apps, games, and websites using JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
Codecademy is a free online platform that offers programming classes in Python, Java, JavaScript, Ruby, SQL, C++, HTML, and CSS. It provides interactive lessons for daily practice. Codecademy is notable for teaching real world programming skills through different learning modules called “career paths” such as web development and data science. These paths offer a comprehensive learning experience, where the students are taught how to apply real world programming skills.
Our blog on Best of Online Learning - Coding will guide you to the right resources for finding the best online programs for your child.
Language
Summer is a great time for students to take up a language (or more than one!). In the virtual format, your middle schooler can easily access language classes from anywhere, while on vacation and traveling with family.
Duolingo is a cost-friendly language website. They offer free, interactive and bite sized lessons in 35 different languages. Each lesson is personalized, allows each user to learn at one’s own pace, and the short 5-10 minute lessons allow for incremental breaks. Learners progressively unlock new content as they master topics. Languages range from popular ones like French, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese, to even fictional languages such as High Valyrian (although this may not be the most useful).
HelloTalk is yet another cost effective resource that students can use to learn a language. The free app connects students with native speakers across the world. It has talk, video, and text features, allowing you to learn a language and its culture through natural conversation from people that speak it first-hand. This app is most useful for learners that need help with native pronunciations and conversational fluency or would simply like to learn more about the culture, slang and context of a language.
Explore further at our Best of Online Learning: Languages blog.
Public Speaking
Public speaking is a useful skill for everyone, and middle school is a great time to explore. The many virtual programs available makes it that much more palatable for tweens who refuse to engage in public speaking in front of their friends! The MUN Institute offers programs in public speaking online and is a great way to learn about current events. Capitol Debate is a second well regarded program. If not these, look up what local debate programs are taking place near where you live!
Outschool.com is a great resource for online courses in a variety of subjects, ranging from math to history to science to entrepreneurship to so much more! It is the perfect opportunity for your child to explore a range of subjects outside of traditional school classes.
Art and Music
Students can take up online art and music classes via skype or other online platforms. Here are a couple online resources to consider.
Skillshare is an online learning community with thousands of classes offered daily in design, illustration, photography, film, animation, fine arts, graphic design, and more. Each class has bite-sized video lessons and hands-on projects, and students proceed to share their projects in the class to get feedback and collaborate with other Skillshare students, making this especially useful for arts students. Skillshare is free, although most upgrade to premium ($15/month) to access full content. Annual membership is $99/year ($8.25/month).
Musika is a music lesson website that connects you to private music teachers within your area that you may pursue in person or online. A complete list of instruments taught is here. Musika also offers a risk-free trial lesson, making it a strong option for those that want to test out online lessons. Rates depend on location, but a typical 60 minute online lesson in New York, NY, is $48 - $60.
Refer to Best of Online Learning: Music and Art to see a range of options available at every price point.
PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER PROGRAMS
Apart from the easy access online classes students can take in a host of different subjects, middle schoolers can also choose to partake in specific pre-college summer programs taking place virtually this summer. Provided by what are considered some of the most prestigious academic institutions, they ensure a credible and enriching experience for your child. For summer 2021, many of these programs are running virtually, with lower tuition rates. We have provided a rundown of some of the best programs and camps that your middle schooler should consider this summer. Please pay close attention to application deadlines to ensure that your child can adequately prepare their material and get into these programs!
Stanford National Forensic Institute Summer Debate Programs
https://snfi.stanford.edu/camp_sessions/by_grade/7-8
Age Group: Grades 7 and 8
The SNFI Middle School programs (2021, remote) are 1-3 week long programs that prepare middle schoolers for academically rigorous courses in high school and for competitive speech and debate events. The dates of the programs vary based on the course chosen, but all courses will take place sometime between late June and early August. The deadline for these programs is typically around May 25, with applicants before May 1 being guaranteed a spot in the program.
UW Summer Youth Programs
https://www.summer-camp.uw.edu/summer-courses/?g=3#courseList
Age Group: Grades 6 to 8
The University of Washington offers a broad set of courses in diverse disciplines for youth to partake in and keep learning over the summer. From debate to engineering to architecture to law to writing to coding, the list of possible programs is limitless. The dates of each program are different, but all of them run sometime between late June and August. Check the website to see the availability of courses and be quick in applying as they are all filling up!
Camp Launch at William and Mary School of Education
https://education.wm.edu/centers/cfge/precollegiate/camp_launch/index.php
Age Group: Grades 7 to 10
The William and Mary School of Education offers gifted middle school (and high school) students an academically rich summer camp with courses in STEM, writing, and personal development. The program is specifically geared toward giving students from low-income households a chance to carve out an academically rich and bright future for themselves. The virtual camp this year will be held from July 19 to 30. Get in touch with camplaunch@wm.edu if your child is eligible and interested in the program.
Middle School Summer Challenge at Washington University in St. Louis
https://precollege.wustl.edu/middle-school-summer-challenge
Age Group: Grades 5 to 8
Washington University at St.Louis offers summer courses for middle schoolers, strengthening their critical thinking in a host of disciplines ranging from the humanities to public speaking to STEM subjects. The program dates are divided by grade level and will run from June to July, all taking place remotely this year. Ensure that your middle schooler meets the eligibility requirement for this program in terms of grades and other tests, and watch out for the deadline!
Summer Engineering Workshops at Purdue University
Age Group: Grades 6 to 8
The Summer Engineering Workshops at Purdue University invite middle school students to learn about college-level engagement and career exploration in the field of engineering. The program will also help children develop math skills, the ability to network with peers, and guidance on strategies for academic success. The program will run from June 18 to 25, and the deadline for application is May 21.
While we have listed a few of the most popular courses and programs here, you can explore and find more virtual summer programs for your child on our 2021 List of Summer pre-College Programs blog. However, please note that the programs listed on this link are for both high school and middle school. Ensure that if a program on this page looks inviting, you have checked that your middle schooler is eligible!
IN-PERSON PROGRAMS
The online classes and pre-college summer programs listed above provide your child with opportunities in a range of different disciplines that are happening virtually and that they can take from the comforts of their home. However, with things opening up this summer, there are programs that are offering in-person programs, though in limited capacity. We have listed a few of these opportunities for the summer of 2021.
Interlochen Arts Camp (IN-PERSON)
https://camp.interlochen.org/summer-arts-programs
Age Group: Grades 3 to 12
The Interlochen Arts camp offers students specialized programs ranging from creative writing to dance to music to theatre to the visual arts to film and media to interdisciplinary arts. Check the website for details on these different programs and their individual application processes.
NYFA Kids Summer Camp
https://www.nyfa.edu/summer-camps/locations/online
Age Group: 10 to 13 years
The New York Film Academy will be hosting in-person and online summer programs for middle schoolers in filmmaking, acting, photography, 3d animation, musical theatre, and game design. Your child will have the option to choose one of these subject areas to specialize in. Camps can run between 1-4 weeks based on your choice. While the summer program for kids (middle schoolers) is offered virtually, you can check whether your child qualifies for NYFA's in-person programs at New York, Los Angeles, and South Beach.
EXPLO
https://www.explo.org/summer-programs/kids/
Age Group: Grades 4 to 12
EXPLO is a not-for-profit organization that runs summer programs focusing on highly engaging experiential learning. In this immersive two-week in-person summer program, EXPLO students will collaborate with experts on real world projects and challenges, with first hand insight into what a career in different fields may look like.
Summer Discovery
https://www.summerdiscovery.com/
Age Group: Grades 6 to 12
Summer Discovery offers 2 – 6 week pre-college enrichment programs for middle and high school students in the US and England. Students live in a university residence hall while taking courses in STEM, Social Sciences, Law & Government, Business, and more taught by university professors. The programs provide access to over 300 courses and students have access to world-class academics, high-school internships, enrichment courses, community service, cultural immersion, sports, and residential life.
Additionally, in case you are interested in looking at more in-person summer programs for your child, visit our 2021 IN-PERSON Summer Programs on College Campuses for Middle and High School Students blog. We have curated a list of some of the available in-person summer programs for middle school and high school students to engage in this summer.
READING
The summer provides a perfect opportunity for middle schoolers to hone their reading and writing abilities. Along with running along to the library to pick up a good book to read, children can now turn to digital libraries for quick and easy access to a myriad of books to read. Harvard Classics, Goodread, Apple Books, and Kindle have a variety of ebook options for your child to choose from. Along with reading books, middle schoolers can also use this time to cultivate habits of reading newspapers, magazines, and academic journals. Consider getting them a NYT subscription!
VOLUNTEER WORK AND CREATIVE PROJECTS
With social distancing rules slowly relaxing this summer, there should be more opportunities for your child to take up some type of volunteer work. What are some volunteer opportunities that your driven middle schooler can take up at this young age?
The most appealing option would be to find an organization for your child to join. Popular organizations that are always welcoming of volunteers are the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, and Meals on Wheels, to name a few. However, finding organizations for your child to join at this age can also be challenging. But, this does not mean that your child cannot contribute to the community in other ways. Consider making them take up self-driven work that doesn't require them to be part of an organization. For instance, children can help clear trash in local areas such as parks, beaches, or local trails. Alternatively, they can start donation drives by collecting old clothes, toys, books, or even food from the neighborhood and donating it to interested organizations such as shelters and foster homes. You may also find opportunities for your child to contribute to your neighborhood itself. For example, they can offer to mow the neighbor's lawn or help out with other household chores people might need help with. Children can also start their own COVID19 awareness campaigns around the importance of masks, hygiene, and vaccines. An excellent volunteer option is making your child tutor elementary school children, which can even be done virtually!
Along with volunteer opportunities, children can also use this time to undertake different creative projects. They can consider starting a business, such as selling baked goods or even artwork (such as bookmarks!). They can create their own poetry collections or photo albums documenting their time over the break. Suppose you have a backyard or any open space with sunlight, then your child can start their own nursery or vegetable patch. A great opportunity if your child can meet up with other friends is starting their own band!
CULTIVATING HEALTHY HABITS
Being academically successful comes with managing healthy skills with regards to deadlines, taking on increasing workloads, managing stress, and having a good time learning! While taking on rigorous online courses, summer programs, and other work, middle schoolers should also learn to balance that with healthy habits and time for family and themselves. Try to get your child involved in organized sport if possible—along with keeping your child active, sports are useful in building community, discipline, and developing character. Additionally, consider making your child take time to step out of the house to go for hikes or walks, help out with household chores, play board games with the family (scrabble and boggle are a big plus!), and meet friends in a socially distanced manner.
Be sure to download The Versed Middle School Guide below for insights into how to help your child get the most out of middle school years.
As every child and every school is unique, if you would like to speak to one of our advisors about helping your child with academic and extracurricular planning, summer options, and high school choices, please schedule a free consultation with us.
For additional insights, check out our blog posts:
Guide to Gifted and Talented Programs and Are They Worth It?
7 Things Every Middle School Parents Should Know
Parenting Advice: How to Help Guide Your Child to Find an Interest
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About Jahnavi:
Jahnavi Pradeep is currently a rising junior at Mount Holyoke College, pursuing an English major and a Film Studies minor. Having navigated the ups and downs of K-12 education herself, she is committed to Versed's mission of making all students' academic journeys a success! Jahnavi is excited about helping students and their families find the right resources and information to make the best of their K-12 years.
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